MUGABE R
Counsel Isaac Atukunda, the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary hopeful, has advised the frustrated food vendors operating at Ntungamo stage in Rukungiri Municipality to form an association to collectively fight for their rights and seek financial support.
Food vendors at Ntungamo stage have persistently criticized the Rukungiri Municipal Council for actions they claim are aimed at undermining their industry in favor of shop owners. These actions include frequent confiscation of their utensils, which are not returned, leaving the vendors struggling.
Counsel Isaac Atukunda, on Friday, 3rd January 2025, addressed the aggrieved food vendors during a meeting held at Riverside Hotel in Eastern Division, Rukungiri Municipality. The vendors had been invited for legal consultation.
Isaac urged the group to establish an association, petition the Municipal Council Administration and Political Leadership for dialogue, and only pursue legal action if necessary. He also donated UGX 1.5 million as seed capital to support the formation of the association.
Shirati Birungi, one of the vendors, lamented the challenges of servicing loans while grappling with the loss of confiscated utensils, which she described as malicious.
Charity Kyomuhangi, a single mother of seven, emphasized her struggles to provide for her family, pay loans, and cover rent despite adhering to the stated guidelines.
Arnold Mukama, the vendors’ security and health leader, condemned the Municipal Council’s accusations of poor sanitation. He went as far as to vow to leave his children at the Council premises, citing his inability to care for them due to the Council’s actions.
Fred Mucunguzi, the Eastern Division District Councilor, expressed concern over the vendors’ frustrations. He criticized the municipal enforcement officials for using excessive force and called for a sensitization meeting to promote awareness of the operational guidelines.
